I have been reading a lot of forum discussions about what to charge for cakes/cupcakes, et cetera. I have learned a lot from all of you so far. But, I am not sure about what to charge for something like in my photo. I would estimate there are 12 double layer filled pieces of cake there, ( 1x2x2 - 2x3x3) plus about 20 "cake ball" or bigger size fondant covered pieces and then smaller fondant pebbles. Thanks for your ideas!
I dont know how to post images, so if it doesn't work, Ill keep trying. 
Yay! It worked! 
- Wasn't too sure how to add an image. hehe
Neat idea. How many hours do you estimate this cake will take you to complete?
Would 50 bucks, ( serves about 12 + a little extra) plus the cost of the basket be appropriate? Or is that too much?
I have lost jobs in other fields for ignorantly over bidding a contract and am super scared of doing that now-a-days with cakes. But, I have read a lot about cake pricing, and one of the worst things you can do for everyone in the business is undercharge.
Jason, I would say using already baked cake trimmings, it would take me 1.5 - 2 hours maybe to do each basket, if you count time mixing colors for fondant, et cetera. and adding texture to the rocks. ( I'm guessing that's how long it took) If I was doing a bigger order, maybe less time, because wouldn't have to re-do the fondant, just use more of it. ?
If it will take you 2 hours (don't forget prep and cleanup) you can add up your labor cost and ingredients, then add allocated overhead (insurance, license fees, utilities, etc.) to get your final cost, and add your normal profit margin for the price.
So if your wage is $15/hour and kitchen rent is $15/hour, ingredients are $20, and allocated overhead is $10, your cost would be $90. With a 20% profit margin the price would be $108.
If labor is most of your cost, make sure your labor estimate is accurate (and err on the side of it taking longer). If it takes you 3 hours, your cost would be $120 with a price of $144.
ACZ, hehe... thanks,
Jason, Thanks for your advice and time. Wow, that much? Do people really pay that much for stuff?
Jason, Thanks for your advice and time. Wow, that much? Do people really pay that much for stuff?
If you are targeting the right market (people who will pay extra for quality) then they will absolutely pay that much.
If you look at your original estimate of $50, and using my cost estimates above, after deducting ingredients and allocated overhead you only have $20 to work with. Even if you assume your kitchen space is rent-free (which ignores the market value of the space), if the order takes you 3 hours you are only making $6.67/hour, that's below minimum wage. Plus your profit margin would be zero so no money would be accruing to your business.
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